Meet the 16 U.S. Military members set to compete in Paris
The City of Light is set to shine even brighter as Paris, France hosts the 17th Paralympic Summer Games. This year’s event marks a historic milestone with an unprecedented 168 delegations participating, showcasing the growing global embrace of para-sports. The grand spectacle kicks off with the opening ceremony on August 28th, setting the stage for an inspiring display of human potential and athletic prowess.
As the games unfold, 225 talented athletes will represent the United States, each carrying the hopes and dreams of a nation. Among this exceptional group are 16 individuals who have proudly served in the United States military, embodying both the spirit of athletic excellence and patriotic dedication.
In the following sections, we’ll introduce you to these remarkable current and former service members who are now ready to compete on the world stage. Their journey from military service to Paralympic glory is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of the human spirit.
Jorge Salazar: Basketball
Jorge Salazar, a retired U.S. Marine Corps veteran, found a new arena for his competitive spirit in 2013 when he embraced wheelchair basketball. The former corporal’s military precision now translates to the court as he represents the Wolf Pack, a San Diego-based wheelchair basketball team. This unique squad, primarily composed of current and former U.S. military personnel, embodies the camaraderie and resilience cultivated in service. Salazar’s journey from Marine to adaptive athlete showcases how veterans can channel their discipline and teamwork into new pursuits, continuing to serve to encourage others long after their military careers conclude.
Classification: 3.5
Competing in: Competing in: Wheelchair Basketball (Aug. 29-Sep. 7)
Mason Symons: Wheelchair Rugby
After his military service, Mason Symons’ athletic journey took flight at a veterans’ developmental camp, where he first encountered wheelchair rugby. The Pennsylvania native’s competitive spirit led him to explore a diverse array of sports, including weightlifting, wheelchair slalom, table tennis and shooting at the National Veterans Wheelchair Games (NVWG). Symons’ dedication culminated in a remarkable achievement as part of the U.S. wheelchair rugby team, clinching gold at the 2023 Parapan American Games.
You can learn more about Symons by visiting our sister-publication’s YouTube channel.
Classification: 2.0
Competing in: Open Team Tournament (Aug. 29-Sep. 2)
Jason Tabansky: Archery
A testament to adaptability and precision, Brad Tabansky brings a wealth of experience to the Paralympic archery field. This U.S. Army veteran dedicated 15 years of his life to military service, retiring as a staff sergeant at the age of 32. Tabansky’s service record includes deployments to both Afghanistan and Iraq, where he honed the focus and discipline that now serve him well in competitive archery.
Tabansky’s path to the 2024 Paralympics took an unexpected turn when he received a late call-up to replace Australia’s Christopher Davis, who unfortunately had to withdraw due to injury. This twist of fate has given the Texas native a chance to showcase his skills on the global stage.
Classification: W1
Competing in: Men’s Individual W1 Archery (Aug. 29), Mixed Team W1 Ranking Round (Aug. 29)
Dennis Connors: Cycling
Owen Connors’ journey to the Paralympic cycling track is a testament to the transformative power of sport and community. A decade-long veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, Connors’ service included three grueling combat tours, experiences that would shape his future in unexpected ways.
In 2016, Connors found a new mission through Project Hero, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting veteran mental health through cycling. It was here that he first climbed onto a bike, discovering not just a new hobby, but a path to healing and competition. His entry into the world of para-cycling was inspired and encouraged by fellow veteran and accomplished US Para cyclist, Shawn Morelli, highlighting the strong bonds within the veteran athletic community.
Classification: T2
Competing in: Men’s T1-2 Individual Time Trial (Sep. 4), Men’s T1-2 Road Race (Sep. 7)
Shawn Morelli: Cycling
Shawn Morelli’s journey from military service to Paralympic stardom is a testament to her resilience and adaptability. As a former engineer officer in the U.S. Army, Morelli applied her analytical skills and determination to overcome challenges both on and off the battlefield. Her military career came to an unexpected close in 2012 when she was medically retired, but this transition opened the door to a new chapter in her life.
Morelli’s introduction to Para cycling came in 2010 at the Warrior Games, an adaptive sports competition for wounded, ill, and injured service members and veterans. This event ignited a passion that would propel her to the highest echelons of Paralympic sport. From those early days of competition, Morelli has forged ahead with unwavering focus and determination.
Her dedication has paid off spectacularly on the world stage. Morelli’s Paralympic record is nothing short of impressive, boasting gold medals from both the Tokyo and Rio Games. In total, she has amassed four Paralympic medals, a hardware collection that reflects her status as one of the sport’s elite competitors.
Classification: C4
Competing in: Women’s C4-5 500m Time Trial Para Cycling Track (Aug. 29), Women’s C4 3000m Individual Pursuit (Aug. 30), Women’s C4 Individual Time Trial (Sep. 4), Women’s C4-5 Road Race (Sep. 6).
Jataya Taylor: Fencing
Elizabeth Taylor’s path to Paralympic fencing is marked by resilience and rapid ascent. A U.S. Marine veteran, Taylor faced a life-altering challenge when injuries led to the amputation of her left leg. Undeterred, she discovered wheelchair fencing just two years ago, quickly adapting her warrior spirit to this new arena.
Despite being a newcomer to the sport, Taylor’s progress has been remarkable. The Colorado native’s dedication and natural aptitude were on full display at the 2023 World Championships in Terni, Italy, where she competed against the world’s best. Taylor’s journey from military service to international fencing competitor showcases her adaptability and determination, embodying the Paralympic spirit of overcoming adversity through sport.
Classification: A
Competing in: Women’s Foil Category A (Sep. 4), Women’s Foil Team (Sep. 5), Women’s Épée Category (Sep. 6), Women’s Épée Team (Sep. 7)
Garrett Schoonover: Fencing
From battlefield to fencing, this U.S. Army veteran’s journey is one of resilience. After losing a leg in a motorcycle accident, he found new purpose through wheelchair fencing, introduced by his friend in 2021. His talent quickly bloomed, culminating in a gold medal victory at the 2024 Americas Zonal Championship in Brazil. But his passions extend beyond sports – this multi-faceted individual also boasts a master’s degree in vocal performance from UCLA, showcasing his diverse talents and indomitable spirit.
Classification: A
Competing in: Men’s Sabre Category A (Sep. 3), Men’s Foil Category A (Sep. 4), Men’s Foil Team (Sep. 5), Men’s Épée Category A (Sep. 6), Men’s Épée Team (Sep. 7).
Bobby Body: Powerlifting
Born into military life and raised in an Army orphanage, Bobby Body’s connection to service ran deep. Driven by patriotism after 9/11, he enlisted in the United States Army, only to face life-altering trauma when a roadside bomb in Iraq claimed his leg. Undeterred, he channeled his resilience into powerlifting, achieving gold at the 2023 Parapan American Games. Beyond his athletic prowess, this Michigan native now serves as a certified peer support specialist, using his experiences to counsel fellow veterans and amputees, embodying the spirit of service in a new, profound way.
Classification: PWL
Competing in: Men’s up to 107kg (Sep. 8)
John Joss: Shooting
Sergeant John Joss, a distinguished member of the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, has been serving his country since 2004. His exceptional shooting skills have earned him national recognition, as he currently holds the record in the R6-Mixed 50m Free Rifle Prone SH1 category. A seasoned Paralympian, Joss is set to compete in his third Paralympic Games, showcasing the perfect blend of military precision and Paralympic prowess. His journey exemplifies how military training can translate into world-class athletic performance, inspiring both fellow service members and aspiring Paralympians alike.
Classification: SH1
Competing in: R6 -Mixed 50m Rifle Prone SH1 (Sep. 5)
Kevin Nguyen: Shooting
Army Staff Sergeant Kevin Nguyen’s resilience shines through his remarkable journey. The Californian’s life took a dramatic turn when he lost his leg to an IED in Afghanistan. Undeterred, Nguyen not only returned to active service but also channeled his expertise into coaching the Paralympic Division of the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit. His perseverance has propelled him to the global stage, as he prepares for his second Paralympic Games. Nguyen’s story embodies the indomitable spirit of a soldier, showcasing how adversity can be transformed into athletic excellence and leadership. His dual roles as a serving military member and Paralympian inspire both his fellow soldiers and the adaptive sports community.
Classification: SH1
Competing in: Competing in: R6 -Mixed 50m Rifle Prone SH1 (Sep. 5)
Marco DeLaRosa: Shooting
In 1993, U.S. Marine Corps veteran Marco De La Rosa’s act of courage outside Camp Pendleton took an unexpected turn when he intervened to thwart a robbery. The confrontation left him with a gunshot wound to the back, resulting in lower body paralysis. Despite this life-altering event, his indomitable spirit shone through. In 2017, his resilience and contributions to the adaptive sports community were recognized with the prestigious Spirit of the Games Award from the Paralyzed Veterans of America, (PVA). Building on his debut at the 2016 Rio Paralympics, this determined athlete is now poised for his second Paralympic appearance. His journey from Marine to decorated Paralympian exemplifies the enduring strength found in those who’ve served, proving that adversity can be a launching pad for extraordinary achievements.
Classification: SH1
Competing in: P1 – Men’s 10m Air Pistol SH1 (Aug. 30), P3 – Mixed 25m Pistol SH1 (Sep. 2)
Ellie Marks: Swimming
Born into a legacy of service, Elizabeth (Ellie) Marks answered the call of duty at just 17, enlisting in the United States Army as a combat medic. Her military career took an unexpected turn when bilateral hip injuries sidelined her. Yet, in her determined pursuit to be declared “fit for duty,” she uncovered a hidden talent in the pool. This newfound passion for swimming propelled her to remarkable heights, culminating in a four-medal haul at the Invictus Games. Her extraordinary journey and indomitable spirit caught the attention of the sports world, leading to her receipt of the prestigious Pat Tillman Award at the 2016 ESPYs. Her story embodies the resilience of service members, showcasing how adaptability and perseverance can transform setbacks into triumphs, both in and out of uniform.
Classification: S6
Competing in: Women’s 50m Freestyle – S6 (Aug. 29), Women’s 200m Individual Medley – SM6 (Aug 30.), Women’s 50m Butterfly – (Sep 3.) S6 Women’s 100m Freestyle – S7 (Sep. 4), Women’s 100m Backstroke – S6 (Sep. 7).
Eric McElvenny: Triathlon
A three-tour U.S. Marine Corps veteran, this athlete’s life took a dramatic turn during his final deployment when an improvised explosive device cost him his right leg below the knee. Yet, in the face of this life-altering injury, he forged an iron resolve. He set an audacious goal: to complete an IRONMAN Triathlon. True to the Marine ethos of “adapt and overcome,” he realized this dream in 2013, proving that willpower can triumph over physical adversity. Now, his journey of resilience continues on the world stage as he prepares for his second Paralympic Games. His story exemplifies the unyielding spirit of military veterans, demonstrating how the crucible of combat can forge Paralympic champions who inspire both fellow service members and civilians alike.
Classification: PTS4
Competing in: Men’s PTS4 Triathlon (Sep. 1)
Howard Sanborn: Triathlon
After dedicating 15 years to the United States Army, Howard Sanborn discovered his passion for triathlons while still in uniform.
In 2012 a distracted driver’s vehicle struck him from behind during a training ride. The collision left him with a broken back and paralyzed from the waist down. Embodying the resilience instilled by his military career, Sanborn defied expectations. Remarkably, just seven months post-injury, he was back on the triathlon circuit, adapting his approach but not his determination. Now, Sanborn’s perseverance has propelled him to the pinnacle of adaptive sports as he prepares for his debut at the Paralympic Games.
Classification: PTWC1
Competing in: Men’s PTWC Triathlon (Sep. 2)
Kelly Elmlinger: Triathlon
Kelly Elmlinger’s journey from battlefield to athletic arena is a testament to unwavering resilience. Her path of service began in college when she enlisted as an Army medic, dedicating a decade to military duty. However, in 2013, Elmlinger faced an unexpected enemy: synovial sarcoma, a rare cancer that lead to the amputation of her leg.
She channeled her military-honed determination into a new mission – competitive running. This newfound passion propelled her to Paralympic heights, with her debut in Tokyo’s PTS5 Triathlon, where she secured a commendable seventh place. Now, Elmlinger stands ready for her second Paralympic appearance, embodying the spirit of adaptation and perseverance.
Classification: PTS4
Competing in: Women’s PTS4 Triathlon (Sep. 1)
Melissa Stockwell: Triathlon
From battlefield to Paralympic arena, Melissa Stockwell’s journey embodies resilience and pioneering spirit. After graduating from the University of Colorado at Boulder in 2002, she was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army’s transportation corps. Her service took a dramatic turn in 2004, just one month into her Iraq deployment during a roadside bomb attack on her vehicle.
In a groundbreaking achievement, she became the first Iraq War veteran to qualify for the Paralympics in 2008, competing in swimming. Now, she’s set to make her fourth overall Paralympic appearance, marking her third in the triathlon event.
Classification: PTS2
Competing in: Women’s PTS2 Triathlon (Sep. 1)
